Jan Christine Bukowski

Jan Christine Bukowski (Conkling), formerly of Rockford, IL, passed away suddenly on Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Cottonwood, AZ, where she had been living. She was born in Belvidere, IL, on October 7, 1953, daughter to Robert and Helen Conkling.

Jan grew up in Rockford and graduated from Auburn High School in 1971. She was active in many school groups, including French Club, Aquin’s (synchronized team swimming), Orchestra, Treble Clef, and Choir. Gifted in music, animal care, and the arts. She played the flute and piano and for many years served as choir director, youth group leader, and lead pianist at her church.

Her career was impacted by a stroke in her early 30s, but she remained devoted to her most cherished role—being a mother. She poured her creativity into home decorating, renovation, and restoration projects for both her own and others’ homes and rental properties.

Jan found joy and community in Cottonwood, AZ, where she made lasting friendships. Her deep love for animals was clear to all who knew her, especially in her bond with her beloved Beagle, BeBe, and her cat, Belle.

She is survived by her children, Tina Johnson and Kent (Susan) Johnson; grandchildren Evan (Kerrins), Tyler, and Matt (Kristen) Johnson; and great-grandchildren Eliza, Ollie, and Isaac. She was a loving sister to Robert Jr. and Paul Conkling, and her sister-in-law Ruth McCaw. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tom, and her sister Diane.

A private family burial will take place at 11 a.m. on June 28 in Belvidere, IL.

An RSVP Celebration of Life will be held for Jan on Saturday June 28th, from 1-4 p.m. Join us at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford at 7801 E. State St., Rockford. Enter the East entrance, sign says, “Event Entrance.” Our event is held in the pre-event space. You should not enter through casino. Please contact babsrob@hotmail.com of your attendance, RSVP’s are needed prior to 6/11/25. Lunch will be at 1:30 with a short program to follow. When you RSVP, please let us know in your party how many will be eating, and if any are under 21, their first and last name. Thank you!

Also, for Jan’s Cottonwood, Arizona community there is a Celebration of Life planned on May 14, 2025, 4 p.m. at the El Rio De Oro Clubhouse, located at 325 W. Highway 89A, Cottonwood, AZ, 86326.

In lieu of flowers, please support Jan’s passion and love for animals by considering a donation in her name to one of the following organizations.

Memorial & Honor Donations – Humane Society of Central Arizona Humane Society of Central Arizona

Dental Equipment - Verde Valley Humane Society Verde Valley Humane Society

Donate — Noah’s Ark Noah's Ark